Wax Pen
Definition: A wax pen is a portable, battery-powered vaporizer designed for solid cannabis concentrates like wax, shatter, budder, and rosin. You load a small amount of concentrate directly onto a heating element, or atomizer, which vaporizes it for inhalation. It’s a pocket-sized alternative to a dab rig.
How Does a Wax Pen Work?
A wax pen has three main parts: a rechargeable battery, an atomizer chamber, and a mouthpiece. When you press the button, the battery heats the atomizer’s coil or plate, which melts and vaporizes the concentrate. Many pens offer several temperature settings. Lower settings preserve flavor and terpenes, while higher ones produce thicker vapor.
What Is the Difference Between a Wax Pen and a Vape Pen?
A standard vape pen uses a pre-filled cartridge of liquid oil. A wax pen has an open chamber you load yourself with solid concentrates, and its heating element is built to handle thicker material. Some batteries accept both with swappable attachments.
How Do You Use a Wax Pen?
- Charge the battery fully.
- Remove the mouthpiece and use a dab tool to place a rice-grain-sized amount of concentrate on the atomizer.
- Replace the mouthpiece, press the button to heat, and take a slow, gentle draw.
- Wait a few minutes to feel the effects before taking more.
How Do You Clean a Wax Pen?
Wipe the mouthpiece and chamber with a cotton swab dipped in isopropyl alcohol, keeping liquid away from the battery connection. Replace the atomizer when flavor turns burnt or the pen stops producing vapor.
Related terms: Atomizer, Wax, Dab Pen, Nectar Collector
Sources: DEA Drug Fact Sheet: Vaping and Marijuana Concentrates; NIDA: Cannabis Concentrates DrugFacts.
